Must-Try Chinese Street Food in NYC: Explore the Best Bites in the Big Apple

1. Dumplings: The Ultimate Chinese Street Snack
2. Steamed Bao: Fluffy Bites with Surprising Fillings
3. Chinese Baozi: A Taste of Tradition
4. Jianbing: The Savory Chinese Crepe
5. Chuan: The Sizzling Skewers of NYC
6. Zhou: The Comforting Chinese Porridge

1. Dumplings: The Ultimate Chinese Street Snack

When it comes to Chinese street food in NYC, dumplings are the undisputed champion. These little pockets of joy come filled with everything from juicy pork to flavorful vegetables. Whether you're at a food cart or a bustling street-side stall, the sight of freshly steamed or pan-fried dumplings sizzling on the griddle is sure to tempt you. A must-try spot for dumplings in NYC is Dumpling Shack in Chinatown, where their hand-folded dumplings are legendary.

2. Steamed Bao: Fluffy Bites with Surprising Fillings

Steamed bao is another iconic Chinese street food that has found a devoted following in New York City. Soft, pillowy dough encases a wide array of delicious fillings, from pork belly to mushroom and tofu. A personal favorite is the Bao by Bao, where the bao are steamed to perfection and served with a variety of traditional and contemporary fillings. Whether you're a first-timer or a bao enthusiast, this street food never disappoints.

3. Chinese Baozi: A Taste of Tradition

While steamed bao often steals the spotlight, Chinese baozi (a type of filled bun) offers a more substantial bite. Unlike bao, which are typically soft and fluffy, baozi tend to be thicker and more doughy, with a filling that often includes a mix of meats, vegetables, and aromatic spices. Head to Baozi House in Flushing for a taste of these traditional buns that transport you straight to the streets of Beijing.

4. Jianbing: The Savory Chinese Crepe

For a unique and satisfying street food experience, look no further than jianbing. This Chinese savory crepe is typically filled with eggs, crispy wonton strips, scallions, and your choice of fillings such as chicken or pork. It's a breakfast favorite in China and is gaining popularity in NYC's bustling street food scene. If you're lucky enough to find a jianbing cart near you, it’s worth trying. A well-known spot for jianbing is Jianbing Street in Manhattan, where the crepes are crispy, flavorful, and perfectly cooked.

5. Chuan: The Sizzling Skewers of NYC

Chuan, or Chinese skewers, are the perfect snack for those craving bold, smoky flavors. These skewers are often grilled over an open flame and coated in a fragrant mix of spices that’ll have you coming back for more. You can find these sizzling treats all over NYC, particularly in Flushing and Chinatown. Try Chuan Grill for some of the city’s best skewers, where they offer everything from lamb to vegetables, all charred to perfection.

6. Zhou: The Comforting Chinese Porridge

End your street food journey with a comforting bowl of zhou, or Chinese congee. This warm porridge can be enjoyed both savory and sweet, and it's a great way to experience a true taste of Chinese comfort food. You can choose from a variety of toppings, such as pickled vegetables, salted eggs, or even preserved meats. Check out Zhou House for a heartwarming bowl that’s perfect after a day of street food exploration.

If you're a foodie looking to explore the unique and mouth-watering flavors of Chinese street food, NYC is the perfect destination. From dumplings and baozi to sizzling chuan and comforting zhou, the city offers a wealth of authentic flavors that will leave you craving more. Want to plan your food-filled adventure in New York? Visit us today and explore the best Chinese food experiences NYC has to offer.